Operations Manager

At Oceanarium, we aim to ensure that all of our visitors experience a fantastic day out. It’s not just about the amazing attraction and all it has to offer, each member of our team plays a part in making this happen.

Oceanarium is part of Parques Reunidos, one of the leading leisure park global operators, with more than 30 different assets (theme parks, zoos and marine parks, water parks and other attractions), spread out over various countries across Europe.

At Oceanarium we are thrilled to announce this role, and we are looking for a confident and committed individual to join our team.

Role Type:

Permanent

We’ll provide full training and uniform, a competitive salary package and a whole host of benefits, including complimentary attraction tickets, discounts and other incentives…Oh, and you’ll be working alongside an amazing team!!

We are seeking:

Operations Manager

For the following vacancy, we are looking for a confident and committed individual who is passionate about the opportunities this role may bring.

Company Overview

Are you a seasoned operations leader with a passion for delivering exceptional visitor experiences? Oceanarium Bournemouth is seeking a highly motivated Operations Manager to play a key role in the day-to-day management of one of the South Coast’s leading visitor attractions.

Located on the iconic Bournemouth seafront, the Oceanarium is a popular aquarium attraction welcoming thousands of visitors every year. Owned by Parques Reunidos, one of the world's largest leisure and attraction operators, we are part of an international organisation with attractions across Europe.

The Role

Reporting directly to the UK Director, the Operations Manager will be responsible for overseeing the daily operation of all non-animal functions within the attraction. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring a proactive individual who can drive operational excellence, lead teams, and ensure an outstanding guest experience. Open everyday except for Christmas day, weekend work and availability during school holidays is expected.

Key responsibilities include:

Managing recruitment, training, and development of all seasonal employees
Leading and supporting operational teams across the attraction
Ensuring compliance with health and safety standards and best practice
Overseeing cash handling, financial controls, and operational budgets
Driving guest service excellence and enhancing the visitor experience
Managing facilities, maintenance and cleaning operations
Monitoring visitor satisfaction and implementing continuous improvements
Supporting the ongoing commercial performance and profitability of the business
Providing leadership and oversight of the Admissions, Retail, and Catering departments
Taking full operational responsibility for the attraction in the absence of the UK Director
About You

To be successful in this role, you will have:

Proven management experience within the visitor attraction, leisure, hospitality, or tourism sector
Strong knowledge and practical experience of health and safety management
Experience leading, motivating, and developing diverse teams
Excellent organisational and communication skills
A customer-focused approach with a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences
Commercial awareness and the ability to balance operational efficiency with visitor satisfaction
Confidence in making decisions and managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Benefits:


Company pension
Cycle to work scheme
Discounted or free food
Employee discount
Private medical insurance
Sick pay
Work Location: In person

Salary Range - £32,000-£38,000 per year DOE

Roles & Responsibilities:

Team member benefits:

Seize this opportunity to transform your future and be part of our dynamic team — apply today and make your mark!